The most populous island in Hawaii has much to explore, from the busy streets of Honolulu to the country of the North Shore. Pay respects at the Pearl Harbor monument and aviation museum, or spend the day at Sea Life Park, home to penguin shows and dolphin swims. Oahu is also home to Iolani Palace, the 19th century former home of Hawaii’s final monarchs.

Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Puerto Morelos is halfway between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It’s got a small town vibe with plenty of dining and entertainment, all set upon a backdrop of shallow, emerald green ocean water. Visit the Croco Cun Zoo to observe crocodiles, spider monkeys, parrots, snakes and more. Hit the water for a dive adventure, or take a jungle ATV tour and swim in a magical Mayan cenote.

Las Vegas, Nevada

There’s nothing quite like the spectacle of Las Vegas. The strip is an unofficial theme park. Wander from casino to casino, taking in shows, shopping, fine dining, gaming and the spectacle of the casinos. Out on the sidewalk, the shows continue with people watching and buskers vying for tourist attention. Take the kids to check out Iron Man at the Marvel Avengers Station interactive exhibit at Treasure Island, or try something uniquely Vegas – become an axe throwing master at Axe Monkeys indoor axe throwing, or fire a machine gun at The Range 702.

Las Vegas, Nevada

For a different feel, you can take a cab a few miles to downtown Las Vegas, where the Fremont Street Experience offers up more people watching, live music and gaming in a more intimate setting. It’s sensory overload at its finest.

Carlsbad, California

Carlsbad, California

The southern California enclave of Carlsbad has family fun from the coast on inland. Hit up Legoland California for a fun twist on the modern theme park. The world famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park is nearby, and has been voted the number one zoo in the world for its diversity of animals. For peace and serenity, check out the Leo Carillo Ranch Historic Park, representing history, culture and Hollywood.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

This stunning, warm destination on the Space Coast hits all the high points of a Florida vacation. Enjoy ocean sport fishing, ecotourism, kayaking among mangroves, river cruises, historical sites and world-class golf. Thirteen miles of white sand beaches greet visitors, as well as some of the most consistent wave action on the east coast. Surf’s up for thrill seekers looking to test their meddle!

About the Author

About the Author: Pat Barcas serves as staff writer and photographer for RTX Traveler Magazine, based in Asheville, NC. His favorite RTX destinations are on the beach: Orange Beach, Alabama, New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. More from this author.

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